The planning committee has been working hard to bring you a great day of learning, with topics ranging from beginner to more advanced levels. Each session will run 35-minutes with 10-minute breaks for you to revisit the agenda and get to your next session. And remember, BarCamp is what you make of it. If there is a topic you want to learn more about, suggest the topic be added to the agenda by filling out a form online or by checking in with a volunteer at the registration desk. Is there something going on in the real estate community that has nothing to do with social media?  That’s okay to add, too!

To give you a sneak preview of what to expect, we thought we’d share some of the most requested topics received via the event website: Facebook Pages and Groups, Google Tools, Video and Photography, Smart Phones and Tablets, Blogging, Websites, SEO and Social Media Integration.

While we have you, here are a few more things to note before the big day:

1. Schedule: When you arrive, go to the pre-registration table to check in. Mix and mingle with people while waiting for the event to start. If you’re interested in leading a session, a BarCamp volunteer can help you at the registration desk. After the opening session, the agenda will be projected in the hallway. Don’t worry about planning your day when you first see the agenda; sessions may be added/removed or rooms may change. It’s best to check the agenda throughout the day. 
          
           Registration/Check-in:      8:00 am to 8:45 am
           Welcome remarks:           8:45 am
           Morning Sessions:            9:00 am – 12:00 pm
           Lunch & Guest Speaker:  12:00 pm– 1:15 pm
           Afternoon Sessions:         1:15 pm – 4:20
           After Party:                     4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
   
   
2. Parking. A special $4.00 parking for BarCamp participants will apply for the Marriott parking garage located at the SE corner of Michigan & Colfax. A BarCamp committee volunteer will provide a voucher at check-in.
3. Lunch. Thanks to our sponsors, lunch is free! During lunch productivity guru Robby Slaughter will be speaking on Productivity and Social Media.
4. Items to Bring.  Come with plenty of business cards, a digital camera, flip video and a laptop if you would like to follow along with any of the session leaders.
5. Stay late. Wrap up BarCamp with cocktails and time with colleagues at the BarCamp South Bend After Party sponsored by Cressy & Everett Real Estate. The After Party will be at the Marriott Hotel so there will be no need to pay for additional parking or leave the hotel.  
6. Say thanks.  Be sure to thank the sponsors. They have provided you an incredible day of learning for FREE. While you’re at it, say hi to the volunteers, too!

BarCamp Tips

Last but not least, we compiled a few tips for those of you who are new to the BarCamp concept.

1. Be willing to share and participate. BarCamp is about active participation from the attendees. The best learning takes place the more people get involved and share their knowledge. BarCamp is designed to facilitate open conversations. It isn’t about speakers, sponsors, or giving a presentation — it is about someone taking the lead to say “let’s talk about this”. Be willing to share and participate if you have some insight into the topic.  If you’re new to the topic, bring a question or two.  Take advantage of the wealth of knowledge that will no doubt be in the room.
2. Vote with your feet. BarCamps have one rule: the Law of Two Feet. This one, simple rule gives you permission to leave a presentation whenever you feel you’re not contributing or adding value. Since there are other sessions happening, you’re encouraged to use your two feet and find a place where you can add value. Take advantage of this rule in order to maximize your time for what’s important to you. 
3. No selling. In keeping with the intended spirit of a BarCamp, sessions are intended to be a conversation, not a presentation or a sales pitch.  If you are facilitating a topic, this is not an opportunity to pitch products or services. 
4. Take notes. Try to keep your note taking (there will be a lot) organized.  You will want to try to grab three (no more) ideas that you can implement.  There is nothing worse than getting 20 ideas and implementing none. Publish your notes on the web – at your blog or on the BarCamp Facebook Group. We also strongly encourage attendees to submit a blog post to barcampindiana.com.
5. Find and follow. If you find a speaker or contributor that seems worth knowing, grab their Twitter ID (on their name badge) and/or find them on Facebook or LinkedIn.

That’s all for now. We look forward to seeing you on Tuesday!

Your RE BarCamp Indiana – South Bend Planning Committee,

Barry Skalski, Tracy Maurer-Jones, Andrea DeHaven, John De Souza,
Laurie Ladow, Kathy Riland, Donna Miller, Dave Woodson Allie Hostetter